Disney unveils first look at Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday

Back in 2024, Marvel shocked the world by revealing that Robert Downey Jr.'s journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe was far from over. But instead of returning as the beloved hero we all once knew, he's set to be the next big threat to fear. Avengers: Doomsday will mark the debut of a powerful villain fans have been wanting to see for years now: Victor Von Doom. Not only that, but audiences will see him reign supreme over the multiverse (and perhaps even create Battleworld, as it happened in comic book pages).

The post-credits scene of The Fantastic Four: First Steps gave us a quick glimpse at this new iteration of Doom. However, his back was facing the camera, and the only thing we could really see was his mask. With that in mind, fans have been eager to watch the first teaser for Avengers: Doomsday and get a good look at the upcoming antagonist in all of his glory. Fortunately, that day might've arrived sooner than expected.

Our first look at Doctor Doom unveiled at a Disney Merchandise Expo

Disney held a Merchandise Expo in Shanghai, China, and they delivered a surprise that few could've seen coming. A light show revealed not only Doom's potential look in Avengers: Doomsday, but also some interesting story details that fans might play out in the upcoming crossover.

For starters, it isn't surprising to learn that Doom feels ripped straight out of comic book pages. After all, this falls in line with Marvel's recent pattern of delivering comic-book-accurate suits (and the villain's design is also representative of the Avengers: Doomsday concept art that was leaked). Furthermore, Victor's mask seems to be a great improvement from the one shown in the post-credits scene of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which might've been just a temporary prop.

Interestingly enough, the light show opens up with a shot of what seems to be a magic rune. This could hint that Doom will master the mystic arts, much like it has happened in comic book pages. Recently, the Ruler of Latveria even took Doctor Strange's place as the Sorcerer Supreme in the comic arc titled One World Under Doom. This connection with magic could explain how he could create Battleworld and reign supreme over the multiverse in the upcoming live-action project.

The most exciting part comes during a blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment. There's a shot of Doctor Doom killing Thanos, recreating the famous comic book panel we've all seen of him removing the Mad Titan's spine in a single move. Interestingly enough, it has been rumored that King Thanos will make an appearance in Avengers: Doomsday. If that's the case, then we all know what fate awaits him.

It's a common storytelling trope to have a new villain kill an established bad guy to set them as a true force to be reckoned with. We've seen this example happen time and time again in superhero projects, such as Luke Cage and Marvel's Spider-Man 2. Given how effective this tactic is and how little time the MCU had to build up Doom's character, it isn't surprising to learn that this iconic comic book moment might be adapted onto the big screen.

Recently, the Russo brothers shared an Avengers: Doomsday teaser on their social media pages. Now, a Merchandise Expo gives us our first look at the ruler of Latveria. Disney is finally starting to promote the movie, which means we could be getting a teaser trailer any day now. Earth's Mightiest Heroes are ready to assemble once again, and we can't wait to see what surprises await in their upcoming adventure.

Avengers: Doomsday will be released on Dec. 18, 2026.